READING 3: INTRODUCTION OF PROTESTANTISM, CHRISTIANITY 1880s-1910s
Questions
Be sure to answer these questions in complete sentences. Be prepared to share your answers
1. How was the first Protestant missionary able to legally gain entrance to Korea?
The first Protestant missionary was able to legally gain entrance to Korea because he did not come into the country as a missionary but as a physician to the US delegation in Seoul. He learned Korean in order to communicate with people.
2. Besides their spiritual message, what else did the Protestant community have to offer which might have attracted interest and converts?
Besides delivering their spiritual message, the Protestant community also offered factors such as hospitals, schools, medical colleges, nurse training schools, dispensaries, churches, an orphanage, a school for the blind, and a strong Christian community that would have helped it gain popularity and encourage people to become part of it. These factors helped people convert to Christianity because it gave people opportunities in a variety of things (education, jobs, health).
3. How did the churches’ actions positively identify it with Korean nationalism?
The churches helped continue the churches’ practice of translating texts and writing hymns in han’ gul. The Christianity community supported and encouraged the use of han’gul, which is now the traditional language of Korea. Because people carried nationalistic ideals for Korea, many Protestant churches attracted people with their encouragement of han’gul use.
The Role of Shamanism & Fortune-Telling in Korean Culture
Document 6
1. Examine the films in Document 6. List all the items found and explain their significance.
- Hanbok: traditional Korean clothing, expressing nationality?
- swords: punishment to those who commit crimes
- fan: to blow away the bad guys
- jae-sa table: in remembrance of those, and respecting
- dolls: not so sure, maybe children?
- music: to grab attention
2. Describe your group's feelings in viewing the films.
We felt that the films presented a different approach to our view of "religion"; a view that is not commonly seen in teenagers our age. I, personally, have never seen a Shaman performance like that and it was interesting to experience what a traditional performance looked like. No one in our group was able to understand the words a Shamanist said and we all wondered how the practice of the mudang all started, but we remembered that mudangs get paid a lot.
3. How do the films express Korean religious beliefs and practices?
It is hard whether or not the films express Korean religious beliefs or practices because these come from the traditional beliefs and practices of Koreans. I think that these films are a bit too conservative and hard to understand from a modern day Korean's block. 4. The first film above was shot during a kut after Namdaemun had been burnt down. Explain why this kut was performed (as best you can)?
This kut was performed because the mudang people thought there was evil spirits left in Namdaemun when it burned down (all the treasure and important nation items). They wanted to rid the nationalistic treasure (Namdaemun) of evil spirits that might affect its importance. This kut would not have been allowed about 30 years ago under the regimes of Park Jeong Hee and Seung Man Lee because they did not allow Shamanistic rituals in Korea. Shintoism Retrieval Chart
Legalism Chinese Cultural Studies: Han Fei. A Legalist Writer. http://academic.brooklyn.cuny.edu/core9/phalsall/texts/hanfei.html QUESTIONS FOR ANALYSIS
1. In Han Fei's ideal state what is the supreme governing authority, the will of the ruler or the law?
In Han Fei’s ideal state, the supreme governing authority is the will of the law. He does mention the importance of a ruler, however, he insists that a ruler is only “right” if he/she enforces the law. In addition, law picks the right men to contribute to the political society and power and superiority has no effect on law (“the intelligent sovereign makes the law select men”).
2. What are the "Two Handles" and how important are they to a legalist state? Why must the sovereign never surrender control over the two handles?
The “Two Handles” are chastisement and commendation. Chastisement is punishment and commendation is rewarding someone for something they have done. Those who disobey the law are handled with discipline and are chastised, while those who do follow the law are rewarded (or commended). The sovereign must never surrender control over the “Two Handles” because it promises the ministers’ pledge of faithfulness to the ruler, enforces liberality, and justice. If the ruler loses control of the “Two Handles”, the ruler would lose all his/her power, and he/she would be overtaken by the ministers.
3. What roles do individuality and private initiative play in Han Fei's ideal state?
In Han Fei’s ideal state, individuality and private initiative tend to play no role. These do are not highly praised in a Legalist society (unlike a Confucianist one) because society is follows the law and not the people themselves.
4. Why do you think Legalism appealed to some people?
I think Legalism appealed to some people because of the idea of equality and fairness it supports. Everyone is given equal treatment, without regards to their background, power, or social status. Anyone who deserves punishment is given it, even those of the highest status, and anyone who deserves recognition and commendation is given it.
5. Imagine a series of conversations among a Daoist, a Confucian, and a Legalist. How would each respond on the following issues: What is the purpose of good government? What role does morality play in formulating law? What are the qualities of a superior ruler? The proposition "Might makes right."
(i) A Daoist would say that the purpose of a good government would be to promote peace and freeness. Morality would not be important in formulating law because a Daoist government would not create laws, and would otherwise depend on the “flow of things”. The qualities of a superior Daoist ruler would be some who tries to attain peace, empty his mind, and just “go with the flow”. He/she would follow the natural “flow” of things and keep his mind empty and open to what happens around him/her. A Daoist would go against the proposition “might makes right” because he/she would believe that there would be no need to use force or violence on anything.
(ii) A Confucian would say that the purpose of a good government would be to work to become a role model who is moral, intelligent, and understanding. Morality would be a huge sector in establishing law, but most would depend on the people themselves and their relationships with each other. A superior Confucian ruler would be intelligent, hard working, and talented; someone that others would envy and try to imitate. “Might makes right” would fit into a Confucian because he/she would believe that social status, power, and respect are more important than intelligent individuals.
(iii) A Legalist would say that the purpose of a good government would be to create a society based on justice and system of laws. Legalism depends heavily on morality because “morality” is the basis of laws: punishments, and rewards. A superior ruler in a Legalist society would be one who has control over the “Two Handles” (commendation and chastisement) and who uses these two factors to establish law. “Might makes right” is an adequate phrase to use for a legalist because he/she should strictly follow the law and possess mental sharpness.
Assignment 2: Essential Quotes on Taoism Essential Quotes of Taoism
Go to the Essential Quotes of Taoism above and read through them. Be sure to note down answers to the following questions. (Be prepared to share your answers):
1. In Lectures on the Tao Teh Ching, Lao-Tzu says, that, "The mystery of the Mysterious is the gateway to all indescribable marvels". Does this quote have an equivalent to in Christianity? Are there other parts of the Tao Teh Ching that remind you of Christian ideals?
The quote "The mystery of the Mysterious is the gateway to all indescribable marvels" stated in The Lectures on the Tao Teh Ching by Lao-Tzu, is similar to the existence of Heaven and Hell in Christianity. Similar to Taoists, Christians believe that getting rid of desire would allow one to enter the "gateway" of Heaven ("all indescribable marvels"). The part of the lecture that says "the tao that can be said is not the everlasting Tao" relates to Christianity because "the Way" is not something that can be easily understood, described, explained, and followed. In addition, the usage of the words "mystery", "mysterious", "indescribable" gives the perspective of something that is mysterious and hard to define like Heaven is in Christianity.
2. See Passage 2, "Not honoring men....Not wanting rare things...Not paying attention..." How does this help one understand how Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism found common ground and were not mutually exclusive belief systems?
Passage 2 helps one understand how Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism are similar to each other because the first line "not honoring men of worth" gives us the same idea that in Confucianism, one should value natural intelligence rather than judging people depending on their social status and power. "Not wanting rare things" is similar to the idea in Buddhism where it is important to get rid of all desires and go through suffering in order to reach the state of Nirvana. In addition, "not paying attention to the desirable" links to the idea in Taoism that it is important to rid the mind of paltry matters and keep it as empty as possible (keep it from being complex).
3. In Passage 2, what do you think is meant by the lines, "relaxing the mind, reinforcing the abdomen, gentling the will, strengthening the bones"?
I think the lines, "relaxing the mind, reinforcing the abdomen, gentling the will, strengthening the bones" prove the connection between Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. "Relaxing the mind" refers to the idea of Inner Peace and emptying the mind of things that are complex and are unnecessary. "Reinforcing the abdomen" emphasizes the importance of the core which is the Confucius idea of strengthening the inner mind and increasing knowledge, respecting others. "Gentling the will" relates to the idea that it is important to rid the mind of paltry things and releasing the desire. Finally, "strengthening the bones" seems to relate to all three philosophical ideas in that it is vital to focus on the inner body and not the outside. It is important to understand oneself and clear the mind and body to become successful.
4. Consider the last three entries from D.C. Lau's Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching, Lao Tzu describes government. How is this ideal different from Confucius' ideal? What present day system of government are you reminded of when you read this section? Do you think this is a good system? Explain.
In the last three entries of Tao Te Ching, Lao Tzu says that the government should let "things go the way they are". This is similar to the modern-day anarchy where there shouldn't be strict regulations or limitations in the society. On the other hand, Confucius's ideal is that a government should set a good example for its people by being moral and right. Personally, I think that Lao Tsu's theory is hard to make successful as it does not follow the modern day government system. Therefore, Confucius's idea of a structured, organized government is a better system than that of Lao Tzu's.
5. Regarding the third treasure that Lao Tzu describes, what do you think is his message? Do you agree? What does this say about people who are ambitious?
I think Lao Tzu's message in regarding the third treasure is that being humble and modest will lead to success in society. It is important to understand others and refrain from taking everything yourself. In other words, it is hard for someone selfish and greedy attain a high rank in society and accomplish their goals and desires easily. I disagree with this notion because I believe that in order for someone to succeed, they need to possess some degree of greediness that will encourage them to move forward. Having slight ambition, not a lot, is useful in aiding people to achieve their goals. Being ambitious is not bad, as long as it is done to a certain degree that does not harm others. Tao of Pooh Wikipost Assignment
CHAPTER ONE THE HOW OF POOH? by Peter Suh, Daniella Cha, Shelley Shim F Block Asian Studies (Mr. Plouffe)
I. PHOTO INTRODUCTION
II. SUMMARY The chapter opens with a discussion between the narrator and Pooh where the narrator decides to explain Taoism. The narrator introduces the topic by referring to a scroll called The Vinegar Tasters, which he finds in a small shop that “sells scrolls in a classic manner”. There are three men standing around a vat of vinegar and each dips a finger in the liquid and tastes it. Each of the three men have a unique reaction. The vinegar tasted here represents the “Essence of Life”, and the three men represent the “Three Teachings” of China. The three men are Confucius (K’ung Fu-tse), Buddha, and Lao Zi (Lao-tse). The first man, Confucius, has a sour look on his face when he tastes the vinegar because to him, life seemed rather sour. He believed that the present and past did not match each other and that the ways of men did not go according to the Way of Heaven. Therefore, he encouraged people to revere their ancestors by performing ancient rituals and ceremonies, and as Confucius said, “If the mat was not straight, the Master would not sit”.
The second man, Buddha, had a bitter expression when he tasted the vinegar because he believed that life was bitter. He thought that life was full of connections and desires that eventually led to suffering. Buddha believed that one’s goal in life would be achieving Nirvana by going through “the world of dust”.
The last man, Lao Zi (Lao-tse), smiled when he tasted the vinegar because he believed that there was a harmony that existed between heaven and earth from the very beginning. Being the creator of Taoism, Lao Zi also published a book called the Tao Te Ching, where he believed that the Heaven existed in the present time; he believed that Earth was an exact reflection of Heaven. Lao Zi also believed that the world was not a “setter of traps”, but a “teacher” of valuable lessons. Unlike Confucius, Lao Zi believed that people should enjoy the “dust of the world” instead of turning away from it, and he believed in “the Way” or “Dao”. Following the “Dao” is the prime principle of Taoism, a Way of the Universe that would initially be difficult to understand, but as its nature and meaning is slowly followed, Taoists would eventually be able to understand it. Taoists believe that the best way to live life is to live in happiness. That is why within the scroll, The Vinegar Tasters, Lao Zi is the only master out of the three who is smiling because he considers the best way to live life is to turn the sour and bitter parts into sweet parts. The only way to do this would be convert things that are unpleasant and negative into things that are positive, and ultimately try to achieve happiness.
III. SUMMARY ANALYSIS I think that Benjamin Hoff decided to introduce Taoism by referring to The Vinegar Tasters because he wanted to create a comparison between the three masters (Confucius, Buddha, Lao Zi) by giving the individual reactions each had when they tasted the vinegar. By using this comparison, Hoff was able to easily show us that Taoism is focused on turning the negative factors of life into positive factors (which is the reason why he was the only man who was smiling). Hoff also proved to us that the most important quality of Taoism is to try to achieve happiness, which is the ultimate goal of life. This introduction to Taoism in the first chapter is clear and accurate, especially as it explains this system by comparing it with Confucianism and Buddhism, which most people are familiar with.
IV. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. What does The Vinegar Tasters represent, and why would the shopkeeper describe the scroll as something humorous, or perhaps with some sort of Timeless Meaning?
2. What is “the world of dust”, and why would Lao-tse advise others to “join the world of dust”?
3. Who were the three masters in the book The Vinegar Tasters? What does the masters represent?
4. Why did K’ung Fu-tse have a sour life, compared to Lao-tse, who had a sweet life?
5. What is the “Tao Virtue Book”? What does it emphasize?
6. Compare and contrast between the three masters. What are some similarities and differences?
7. Why do you think that Benjamin Hoff decided to explain the principle of Taoism by referring to the story of the vinegar tasters and by comparing Lao Zi to Confucius and Buddha?
V. THEME ANALYSIS The three important themes that arise in ‘The How of Pooh’ are Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism.
They are discussed as the “Three Teachings”, and the sample vinegar in which they test is represented as the Essence of Life.
Confucius (K’ung Fu-tse) has a sour look on his face. This shows that life seems rather sour. The major beliefs are that the government of man on earth was out of harmony with the Way of Heaven, the government of the universe. Also, there is a great emphasis on reverence for the Ancestors, as well as for ancient rituals and ceremonies in which the Son of Heaven, the emperor, acts as an intermediary between the limitless heaven and limited earth.
On the other hand, Buddha has a bitter expression, which shows that life on earth is bitter, and filled with desires that lead to sufferings. According to the Buddhist belief, the world is seen as ‘a setter of traps, a generator of illusions, and a revolving wheel of pain for all creatures.’ Therefore, the goal is to find peace, and thus, it is necessary to transcend “the world of dust” and reach Nirvana, literally a state of “no wind”.
The most important theme is Taoism. Lao-tse (the author of the oldest existing book of Taoism) is smiling. This shows that the harmony in which nature exists between heaven and earth from the very beginning can be found by anyone at any time. Also, as stated in Tao Te Ching, The “Tao Virtue Book”, earth was in essence of a reflection of heaven, run by the same laws - not the laws of men. The more man interferes with the natural balance produced and governed by the universal laws, the farther away the harmony retreats. Everything has its own nature already within it, which cannot be violated without causing difficulties. The world is not a setter of traps, but a teacher of valuable lessons, and these lessons must be learned, just as its laws need to be followed. Then, all would go well. The natural result of the harmonious way of living is happiness, and that happy serenity is the most noticeable characteristic of the Taoist personality. It is also stated that sourness and bitterness originates from interference and the unappreciative mind. Therefore, when life itself is understood and utilized for what it is, it will be sweet.
Taoism - Assignment 1 Chuang Tzu And The Butterfly Analysis
1. Why does the author choose a butterfly?
I think the author chose to use a butterfly in this poem because a butterfly possesses a metamorphic quality where it changes form from a caterpillar to a wonderful butterfly. The poem here also mentions the cycle and connection of things in life such as the flow (cycle) of water. The poem also brings up the idea of how something that is unpleasant (like an ugly caterpillar) can transform in a beautiful butterfly as time passes. This is similar to the "man raising melons" and the "Prince of the East Hill" except here, the Prince of the East Hill (a man of high status) changes to a "man raising melons" (a man of low status). The metamorphosis of a butterfly and the cycle of life is important because it defines how unexpectedly our lives can change.
2. What is the importance of the water cycle?
The water cycle is important because it symbolizes the flow of life, where everything is interconnected together. It does not matter whether one thing is smaller or bigger than other because everything is connected, possessing the same privileges, and part of nature. This idea of the water cycle relates to the Taoist idea that everything is part of nature and that everyone is essentially equal.
3. What is the point about the 'man raising melons'?
The point made by the story of the "man raising melons" is that even though the Prince of the East Hill is a man of high status and power, he turned into a farmer very easily. This proves that rank, power, and social status are merely positions that can be taken away from people in a blink of a second so, the most important thing people must do is to enjoy their life, the happiness, and remain childlike (with the perspectives of wonder and joy of life).
4. What is the author attempting to convey to the reader?
I think the author is trying to convey the idea that everything is interconnected and that everybody is equal no matter their status or rank. He/she also emphasizes the idea that striving to achieve happiness is the most important quality of life. However, despite this importance, people still try to achieve prominence and power and be above others in life. Most importantly, the author describes the cycle of change, or metamorphosis where things can change at any given time.
Tao of Pooh Discussion Questions and Quotes
James Huh: 1-8
Shelley Shim: 9-16
David Han: 17-24
Seungah Lee: 25-32
1. What is the significance of the painting Hoff describes named The Vinegar Tasters? (2)
- The Vinegar Tasters is a painting that is significant because it represents the "Three Teachings" of China. The three significant figures who represent Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism are Confucius, Buddha, and Lao-tse. The painting shows the way each belief sees life, which is represented by the vinegar, and this is shown by the different types of faces that are made by the three men.
2. What is the theme of life according to Hoff’s interpretation of Taoism? (5-6)
- According to Hoff, the theme of life according to Taoism is the happiness that occurs when one lives in harmony with the world. Instead of trying to move away from the "world of dust," one should try to join it by appreciating, learning from, and working with what happens. Hoff said that Taoism believes that this directly leads to happiness.
3. How does Hoff explain the “uncarved block” metaphor? (10)
- Hoff explains the idea of the uncarved block by first explaining to the readers that the uncarved blocked represents the original simplicity that things naturally have, and how the things that aren't messed around with contain natural energy. For example, Taoism would see the original, pure form of a boulder as having more natural energy than the boulder changed into a slate to carve words onto.
4. What is the secret message of the “uncarved block?” (12)
- The secret message of the uncarved block is that being simpleminded is the key to living life and getting past its problems. Hoff says that being simpleminded isn't the same as being stupid, and it is actually being calm and having a mirror like mind. He even adds on that it is significant that the simpleminded Pooh is the main character of Winnie the Pooh, because it reflects the idea that Pooh is able to accomplish the things that he does because of his simplemindedness.
5. What was the main conflict between the Confucianists and Taoists according to Hoff? (24)
- The main conflict was that scholars in China were generally Confucianist, and saw things from a different point of view from the Taoists. Lao-tse once said a quote that meant that education could prevent one from seeing all things and being wise, and that being smarter could in a way hinder one's wisdom.
6. Which of Milne’s characters represent Confucianists and Taoists according to Hoff?
- Owl represents a Confucianist and Pooh represents a Taoist.
7. What is Hoff’s opinion of Confucianist scholars? (26)
- Hoff does not have a positive opinion about Confucianist scholars, and he shows this by the way he describes them. First, he describes Owl as a "dried-up Western descendent of the Confucianist Dedicated Scholar, who unlike his Noble but rather Unimaginative ancestor..." Hoff gives a small preview of how he thinks about Confucianist scholars by first calling them unimaginative, and talks more about it when Pooh is confused. The opinion is expanded on, and Hoff says that the Confucianist Scholars kept what he learned to himself and wrote pompous papers that no one would understand instead of working for the enlightenment of the people who read it.
8. What does Hoff say about knowledge vs. experience? (29)
- Hoff says that knowledge and experience are two completely different things, but knowledge that comes from experience is better than just plain knowledge.
9. What do most scholars blame for problems in the world? Why isn’t it justified? (32)
Most scholars blame the "uncarved block" for problems in the world. This isn't justified because the scholars refuse to admit that it is their fault and blame it on the "uncarved block" instead. This is a quality of many people. They try to correct their misconceptions with reasonable justifications, but they do not allow themselves to fully agree to it.
10. What is the difference between “cleverness” and “Inner Nature?” (38)
The difference between "cleverness" and "Inner Nature" is that "cleverness" can be measured, has limitations, and people can understand it, but "Inner nature" cannot be measured nor be clearly understood by people.
11. Why is it important to discern your own Inner Nature? (41)
It isn't important to discern your own Inner Nature because you can figure out where and where not you belong. In knowing this, you can easily tell whether things are right or wrong for you.
12. Explain Hoff’s interpretation of the Chinese quote: “One disease, long life; No disease, short life.” (48)
Hoff's interpretation of the Chinese quote above is the idea that people who acknowledge their problems, admit to their misconceptions, and try to fix them will live longer. However, Hoff believes that people who ignore and neglect their problems, reject the existence of them, and those who fail to correct themselves will die sooner because they failed in looking after themselves. This interpretation is similar to the idea that people who know their limitations will live long and be healthy, whereas those who do not recognize their problems will not.
13. What does Hoff mean when he states that we must learn to “work with Things As They Are?” (50)
By stating that we must learn to "work with Things As They Are", Hoff means that people should recognize the quality of things when they are in their natural form rather than trying to adjust them. Hoff is basically saying that we should appreciate and work with "things that are there" instead of trying to get "things to work with us". Overall, he is saying that it is wiser to recognize things as what they are in the present instead of constantly trying to look for answers to unnecessary questions.
14. What happens to people who do not listen to their Inner Nature? (57)
People who do not listen to their Inner Nature have trouble understanding themselves, are easily influenced by others, and instead of recognizing their own individual identity, they are influenced by other people.
15. What is the Way of Self-Reliance? (57-8)
The Way of Self-Reliance is the process of discovering who we are, what we need to do, and what things are right for us. The most important thing is to understand our individual selves and search for things that match us, instead of looking to others.
16. How can we change ourselves effectively through the principles of Taoism? (58)
We can change ourselves effectively through the principles of Taoism by transforming the things we dislike into favorable, beneficial things or use them in a efficient manner/way. In changing the bad to good, many positive items would be created and help us lessen the struggle we have in getting rid of negative ones.
17. What is the Wu Wei or “The Pooh Way” according to Hoff? (67-8)
It is the most characteristic element of Taoism-in-action. Wu Wei basically means “without doing, causing, or making” or no going against the nature of things. However, in practical way, it means without meddlesome, combative, or egotistical effort.
18. How does the quote, “Tao does not do, but nothing is not done,” explain Wu Wei or “The Pooh Way?” (70)
The quote basically means that Tao doesn’t force or interfere with things, but allows them to do their work in their own way, to produce results naturally. Then whatever that is necessary is done. The quote explains that Tao doesn’t do or put any effort on anything but he gets things done naturally with good results.
19. How does Tai Chi reflect Wu Wei or Taoism as a martial art? (87-8)
Tai Chi Ch’uan is the basic idea of which is to wear the opponent out either by sending his energy back at him or by deflecting it away, in order to weaken his power, balance, and position-for-defense. Never is force opposed with force; instead, it is overcome with yielding. What it means to be overcame with yielding is that results will produce naturally without any force from something just like the idea of We Wei or Taoism.
20. Are you a Bisy Backson? (94)
Just like Bisy Backson is active with his exercises all the time, I also do physical activities, because I play various sports which are good exercises. However, sometimes I see those exercises as works, because it requires physical body movement and work that your body have to do.
21. What is the Bisy Backson view of American history according to Hoff? (103-104)
Bisy Backson thinks that he has to fight and overcome things to progress. The correct definition of progress involves developing and growing which also involves changing inside, but that’s not something the Bisy Backson will do. Bisy Backson believes that he has to change everything and interfering with useless things to make a progress.
22. How does the Bisy Backson waste time by trying to save it? (108-109)
Bisy Backson doesn’t spend his time wisely and usefully, because he thinks doing much work beforehand will save him time, but realistically it doesn’t.
23. What is the Youthful Immortal? (108-9)
Youthful Immortal is one of the most intriguing things about Taoism.
24. What makes us happy in life the goals or the process we go through to reach the goals? Why? (111)
The way of doing things right and going through beneficial process makes us happy, wise and have enjoyment. However, doing things wrong make us miserable, angry, confused.
25. What is the significance of The Stonecutter? (118-9)
The significance of The Stonecutter is that one should always be satisfied of their life no matter which level he or she is in. The Stonecutter wanted to be the merchant, official, sun, and many other things; however, after becoming the stone, he looks down what could be more powerful than the stone and finds out that it was the stonecutter.
26. Explain the significance of the following line from the Tao Te Ching: “From caring comes courage.” (128)
the statement, "From caring comes courage" is significant because it defines having wisdom. According to the story, it is rather significant to those who do not have compassion, do not have wisdom either. Through this quote, people can get more confident and courage in their lives.
27. Where does one find Wisdom, Happiness and Courage? (137)
One can find Wisdom, Happiness, and Courage through appreciating what he or she has given and who you are.
28. What is the “Great Nothing?” (143)
To the Taoist, "Great Nothing" actually means something because they think that nothing is something that many consider to be important. Doing "nothing" will eventually give one a very meaningful and important result.
29. Why is an “Empty sort of mind” so valuable according to Taoism? (146-7)
An "Empty sort of mind" is valuable because it allows one to find pearls and tails that cannot be seen that easily with complicated thoughts inside one's mind. Because Knowledge and Cleverness can lead one to wrong things, it is better to have an empty mind that one can think of something very easily and without complication.
30. Interpret the following quote: “To attain knowledge, add things every day. To attain wisdom, remove things every day.” (148-9)
This statement tells that in order to obtain the knowledge, one should add things by learning. However, in order to obtain the wisdom, one should forget about oneself (how the story mentioned about forgetting his body and senses and leaving all appearance and information behind) and start from nowhere.
31. Why is the child the highest stage of development? (151)
The child is the highest stage of development because the child have the purest and "clear-minded, all-seeing Child" called wisdom by the Taoists which does not apply to the adults. Because the children are very pure and empty-minded, they can actually experience the concept of "Great Nothing" and gain more wisdom.
32. Why may knowledge and cleverness destroy life as we know it? (154)
Knowledge and cleverness may destroy life because cleverness of mind only separates the thinker from the world of reality. Also too much and complicated knowledge will make one to think too much and care too little.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS - Tradition and Religion 1. What do you think religion is, and what does it mean to be a religious person? Is Confucius religious? Give your reasons for thinking what you think.
I think that religion is a collection of faith, beliefs, and culture that relate to humanity and is accepted by people. To be a religious person, one needs to be strongly devoted and completely believe in their religion. Considering this, I think that Confucius is religious in his own way because he follows a system of beliefs and ideals and believes deeply in Confucianism. The only difference is that his way of being religious is different to the way of a Christian.
2. What do Confucius's statements about Heaven suggest about his idea of the relation between Heaven and man? How does this compare with your ideas about the relation between Heaven and man or God and man in Judaism or Christianity or another religious tradition with which you are familiar?
Confucius states that the present is the Heaven that we live in and that there is no such thing as a Heaven that decides one destiny and decides when a person will live or die. Confucius thinks that the Heaven is the present, or the natural world. One of the quotes he mentions in his analects is "My prayer has been for along time (that is, what counts is the life that one leads)." This shows that Confucius believes that the Heaven in the present is the most important and that the afterlife does not have any importance.
His view of the relationship between Heaven and man is different to that of Christians who people in the afterlife and the existence of Heaven and Hell. Confucius focuses on the idea that the present time is the most important and the Heaven that men are supposed to believe and work hard in.
1. How is the experience of karma/samsara different from that of Christianity (in your opinion)? The same?
Karma/Samsara and Christianity are similar in that they both emphasize values for becoming good and penalize for actions that are considered disrespectful. In addition, both karma and Christianity follow the idea that their is an afterlife for those that believe the religion and that their is a connection between the character (or way) the person had lived before he/she had died and the outcome of their death. However, the outcomes of the deaths of people differ for the two religions. In Christianity, the idea follows that a person who had done good in their previous life would go to Heaven and a person who had been malevolent would go to Hell. On the other hand, in karma/samsara, the idea follows that a person who does good in their previous life will be reborn into a good life, and a person who does evil will be reborn into another life that is unpleasant. In conclusion, Christianity supports the idea that a good person will go to Heaven and live in perfect peace, whereas in karma/samsara, the idea is that a person will continuously be reborn until they achieve the goal of becoming the "enlightened" or perfect being.
2. Speculate on what sort of being the prince might become in his subsequent life?
Since the prince was known for his malice and mistreated people who had no wrong to him in his previous life, he would probably be reborn as an animal or an insect that would always have to work continuously in order to earn its own living. Some possibilities are an ant, a pig, a donkey, or a bird; any living creature that would have to work hard to survive. I thought that the prince would be reborn this way because in this way, the prince would learn and discover what he had done wrong in his previous life and work hard to become a better being.
3. Which of the three animals in the story is closest to Enlightenment in your opinion? Why?
Out of the three animals mentioned in the story, I think that the parrot is the closest to Enlightenment as their was no clear mention of any personal desire or greed he had had in his previous life. Also, when the holy man asked each of the three animals what he would get in return for the help and generosity he had given, the parrot had offered to gather the richest red rice from the Himalayas by asking all the other parrots to assist him in the job. This offer shows that the parrot would be willing to work in order to pay back for the help he had received from another person. Unlike the water rat and the snake, who offered only to give the holy man money they had earned from their previous life, the parrot was willing to work at any time to help a friend who had saved him from a close-to-death situation.
4. It is said that Buddha (Siddhartha Gautama) had 550 lives - some in animal form, some in human form - which of the characters in the story do you think is from one of his previous lives? Why?
I think that the holy man was a form of one of Buddha's previous lives. Similar to the the man described in the story, Buddha was also from a wealthy family (he was actually a prince) but he gave up all the luxury and comfort he may have had in order to become a "good" and "enlightened" being. The holy man was willing to risk his life to help creatures that were in need of his help and worked to promote peace and generosity amongst creatures. This is one of the major ideas that Buddha follows: helping others and doing "good".
WHAT DO RELIGION AND PHILOSOPHY HAVE IN COMMON?
Both religion and philosophy relate to our lives as systems of beliefs and values that we, as humans, follow. They influence our minds, our ways of thinking, as well as the meaning and purpose of life. They both act as guides to our society and to the individual, keeping us focused and diligent to our beliefs.
WHY IS THE STUDY OF RELIGION AND PHILOSOPHY IMPORTANT?
The study of religion and philosophy is important because they help us obtain an understanding of other religions and philosophies that we may encounter in our lives. It gives us a sense of understanding different people with different sets of beliefs and values. It helps us form a wider perspective of the world, as well as the people around us.
Current Events
F Shim Shelley Sojung Ancient History III
Christianity Chart
CHRISTIANITY IN KOREA
READING 3: INTRODUCTION OF PROTESTANTISM, CHRISTIANITY 1880s-1910s
Questions
Be sure to answer these questions in complete sentences. Be prepared to share your answers1. How was the first Protestant missionary able to legally gain entrance to Korea?
The first Protestant missionary was able to legally gain entrance to Korea because he did not come into the country as a missionary but as a physician to the US delegation in Seoul. He learned Korean in order to communicate with people.
2. Besides their spiritual message, what else did the Protestant community have to offer which might have attracted interest and converts?
Besides delivering their spiritual message, the Protestant community also offered factors such as hospitals, schools, medical colleges, nurse training schools, dispensaries, churches, an orphanage, a school for the blind, and a strong Christian community that would have helped it gain popularity and encourage people to become part of it. These factors helped people convert to Christianity because it gave people opportunities in a variety of things (education, jobs, health).
3. How did the churches’ actions positively identify it with Korean nationalism?
The churches helped continue the churches’ practice of translating texts and writing hymns in han’ gul. The Christianity community supported and encouraged the use of han’gul, which is now the traditional language of Korea. Because people carried nationalistic ideals for Korea, many Protestant churches attracted people with their encouragement of han’gul use.
The Role of Shamanism & Fortune-Telling in Korean Culture
Document 6
1. Examine the films in Document 6. List all the items found and explain their significance.
- Hanbok: traditional Korean clothing, expressing nationality?
- swords: punishment to those who commit crimes
- fan: to blow away the bad guys
- jae-sa table: in remembrance of those, and respecting
- dolls: not so sure, maybe children?
- music: to grab attention
2. Describe your group's feelings in viewing the films.
We felt that the films presented a different approach to our view of "religion"; a view that is not commonly seen in teenagers our age. I, personally, have never seen a Shaman performance like that and it was interesting to experience what a traditional performance looked like. No one in our group was able to understand the words a Shamanist said and we all wondered how the practice of the mudang all started, but we remembered that mudangs get paid a lot.
3. How do the films express Korean religious beliefs and practices?
It is hard whether or not the films express Korean religious beliefs or practices because these come from the traditional beliefs and practices of Koreans. I think that these films are a bit too conservative and hard to understand from a modern day Korean's block.
4. The first film above was shot during a kut after Namdaemun had been burnt down. Explain why this kut was performed (as best you can)?
This kut was performed because the mudang people thought there was evil spirits left in Namdaemun when it burned down (all the treasure and important nation items). They wanted to rid the nationalistic treasure (Namdaemun) of evil spirits that might affect its importance. This kut would not have been allowed about 30 years ago under the regimes of Park Jeong Hee and Seung Man Lee because they did not allow Shamanistic rituals in Korea.
Shintoism Retrieval Chart
Legalism
Chinese Cultural Studies: Han Fei. A Legalist Writer.
http://academic.brooklyn.cuny.edu/core9/phalsall/texts/hanfei.html
QUESTIONS FOR ANALYSIS
1. In Han Fei's ideal state what is the supreme governing authority, the will of the ruler or the law?
In Han Fei’s ideal state, the supreme governing authority is the will of the law. He does mention the importance of a ruler, however, he insists that a ruler is only “right” if he/she enforces the law. In addition, law picks the right men to contribute to the political society and power and superiority has no effect on law (“the intelligent sovereign makes the law select men”).
2. What are the "Two Handles" and how important are they to a legalist state? Why must the sovereign never surrender control over the two handles?
The “Two Handles” are chastisement and commendation. Chastisement is punishment and commendation is rewarding someone for something they have done. Those who disobey the law are handled with discipline and are chastised, while those who do follow the law are rewarded (or commended). The sovereign must never surrender control over the “Two Handles” because it promises the ministers’ pledge of faithfulness to the ruler, enforces liberality, and justice. If the ruler loses control of the “Two Handles”, the ruler would lose all his/her power, and he/she would be overtaken by the ministers.
3. What roles do individuality and private initiative play in Han Fei's ideal state?
In Han Fei’s ideal state, individuality and private initiative tend to play no role. These do are not highly praised in a Legalist society (unlike a Confucianist one) because society is follows the law and not the people themselves.
4. Why do you think Legalism appealed to some people?
I think Legalism appealed to some people because of the idea of equality and fairness it supports. Everyone is given equal treatment, without regards to their background, power, or social status. Anyone who deserves punishment is given it, even those of the highest status, and anyone who deserves recognition and commendation is given it.
5. Imagine a series of conversations among a Daoist, a Confucian, and a Legalist. How would each respond on the following issues: What is the purpose of good government? What role does morality play in formulating law? What are the qualities of a superior ruler? The proposition "Might makes right."
(i) A Daoist would say that the purpose of a good government would be to promote peace and freeness. Morality would not be important in formulating law because a Daoist government would not create laws, and would otherwise depend on the “flow of things”. The qualities of a superior Daoist ruler would be some who tries to attain peace, empty his mind, and just “go with the flow”. He/she would follow the natural “flow” of things and keep his mind empty and open to what happens around him/her. A Daoist would go against the proposition “might makes right” because he/she would believe that there would be no need to use force or violence on anything.
(ii) A Confucian would say that the purpose of a good government would be to work to become a role model who is moral, intelligent, and understanding. Morality would be a huge sector in establishing law, but most would depend on the people themselves and their relationships with each other. A superior Confucian ruler would be intelligent, hard working, and talented; someone that others would envy and try to imitate. “Might makes right” would fit into a Confucian because he/she would believe that social status, power, and respect are more important than intelligent individuals.
(iii) A Legalist would say that the purpose of a good government would be to create a society based on justice and system of laws. Legalism depends heavily on morality because “morality” is the basis of laws: punishments, and rewards. A superior ruler in a Legalist society would be one who has control over the “Two Handles” (commendation and chastisement) and who uses these two factors to establish law. “Might makes right” is an adequate phrase to use for a legalist because he/she should strictly follow the law and possess mental sharpness.
Assignment 2: Essential Quotes on Taoism
Essential Quotes of Taoism
Go to the Essential Quotes of Taoism above and read through them. Be sure to note down answers to the following questions. (Be prepared to share your answers):
1. In Lectures on the Tao Teh Ching, Lao-Tzu says, that, "The mystery of the Mysterious is the gateway to all indescribable marvels". Does this quote have an equivalent to in Christianity? Are there other parts of the Tao Teh Ching that remind you of Christian ideals?
The quote "The mystery of the Mysterious is the gateway to all indescribable marvels" stated in The Lectures on the Tao Teh Ching by Lao-Tzu, is similar to the existence of Heaven and Hell in Christianity. Similar to Taoists, Christians believe that getting rid of desire would allow one to enter the "gateway" of Heaven ("all indescribable marvels"). The part of the lecture that says "the tao that can be said is not the everlasting Tao" relates to Christianity because "the Way" is not something that can be easily understood, described, explained, and followed. In addition, the usage of the words "mystery", "mysterious", "indescribable" gives the perspective of something that is mysterious and hard to define like Heaven is in Christianity.
2. See Passage 2, "Not honoring men....Not wanting rare things...Not paying attention..." How does this help one understand how Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism found common ground and were not mutually exclusive belief systems?
Passage 2 helps one understand how Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism are similar to each other because the first line "not honoring men of worth" gives us the same idea that in Confucianism, one should value natural intelligence rather than judging people depending on their social status and power. "Not wanting rare things" is similar to the idea in Buddhism where it is important to get rid of all desires and go through suffering in order to reach the state of Nirvana. In addition, "not paying attention to the desirable" links to the idea in Taoism that it is important to rid the mind of paltry matters and keep it as empty as possible (keep it from being complex).
3. In Passage 2, what do you think is meant by the lines, "relaxing the mind, reinforcing the abdomen, gentling the will, strengthening the bones"?
I think the lines, "relaxing the mind, reinforcing the abdomen, gentling the will, strengthening the bones" prove the connection between Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. "Relaxing the mind" refers to the idea of Inner Peace and emptying the mind of things that are complex and are unnecessary. "Reinforcing the abdomen" emphasizes the importance of the core which is the Confucius idea of strengthening the inner mind and increasing knowledge, respecting others. "Gentling the will" relates to the idea that it is important to rid the mind of paltry things and releasing the desire. Finally, "strengthening the bones" seems to relate to all three philosophical ideas in that it is vital to focus on the inner body and not the outside. It is important to understand oneself and clear the mind and body to become successful.
4. Consider the last three entries from D.C. Lau's Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching, Lao Tzu describes government. How is this ideal different from Confucius' ideal? What present day system of government are you reminded of when you read this section? Do you think this is a good system? Explain.
In the last three entries of Tao Te Ching, Lao Tzu says that the government should let "things go the way they are". This is similar to the modern-day anarchy where there shouldn't be strict regulations or limitations in the society. On the other hand, Confucius's ideal is that a government should set a good example for its people by being moral and right. Personally, I think that Lao Tsu's theory is hard to make successful as it does not follow the modern day government system. Therefore, Confucius's idea of a structured, organized government is a better system than that of Lao Tzu's.
5. Regarding the third treasure that Lao Tzu describes, what do you think is his message? Do you agree? What does this say about people who are ambitious?
I think Lao Tzu's message in regarding the third treasure is that being humble and modest will lead to success in society. It is important to understand others and refrain from taking everything yourself. In other words, it is hard for someone selfish and greedy attain a high rank in society and accomplish their goals and desires easily. I disagree with this notion because I believe that in order for someone to succeed, they need to possess some degree of greediness that will encourage them to move forward. Having slight ambition, not a lot, is useful in aiding people to achieve their goals. Being ambitious is not bad, as long as it is done to a certain degree that does not harm others.
Tao of Pooh Wikipost Assignment
CHAPTER ONE
THE HOW OF POOH?
by Peter Suh, Daniella Cha, Shelley Shim
F Block Asian Studies (Mr. Plouffe)
I. PHOTO INTRODUCTION
II. SUMMARY
The chapter opens with a discussion between the narrator and Pooh where the narrator decides to explain Taoism. The narrator introduces the topic by referring to a scroll called The Vinegar Tasters, which he finds in a small shop that “sells scrolls in a classic manner”. There are three men standing around a vat of vinegar and each dips a finger in the liquid and tastes it. Each of the three men have a unique reaction. The vinegar tasted here represents the “Essence of Life”, and the three men represent the “Three Teachings” of China. The three men are Confucius (K’ung Fu-tse), Buddha, and Lao Zi (Lao-tse). The first man, Confucius, has a sour look on his face when he tastes the vinegar because to him, life seemed rather sour. He believed that the present and past did not match each other and that the ways of men did not go according to the Way of Heaven. Therefore, he encouraged people to revere their ancestors by performing ancient rituals and ceremonies, and as Confucius said, “If the mat was not straight, the Master would not sit”.
The second man, Buddha, had a bitter expression when he tasted the vinegar because he believed that life was bitter. He thought that life was full of connections and desires that eventually led to suffering. Buddha believed that one’s goal in life would be achieving Nirvana by going through “the world of dust”.
The last man, Lao Zi (Lao-tse), smiled when he tasted the vinegar because he believed that there was a harmony that existed between heaven and earth from the very beginning. Being the creator of Taoism, Lao Zi also published a book called the Tao Te Ching, where he believed that the Heaven existed in the present time; he believed that Earth was an exact reflection of Heaven. Lao Zi also believed that the world was not a “setter of traps”, but a “teacher” of valuable lessons. Unlike Confucius, Lao Zi believed that people should enjoy the “dust of the world” instead of turning away from it, and he believed in “the Way” or “Dao”. Following the “Dao” is the prime principle of Taoism, a Way of the Universe that would initially be difficult to understand, but as its nature and meaning is slowly followed, Taoists would eventually be able to understand it. Taoists believe that the best way to live life is to live in happiness. That is why within the scroll, The Vinegar Tasters, Lao Zi is the only master out of the three who is smiling because he considers the best way to live life is to turn the sour and bitter parts into sweet parts. The only way to do this would be convert things that are unpleasant and negative into things that are positive, and ultimately try to achieve happiness.
III. SUMMARY ANALYSIS
I think that Benjamin Hoff decided to introduce Taoism by referring to The Vinegar Tasters because he wanted to create a comparison between the three masters (Confucius, Buddha, Lao Zi) by giving the individual reactions each had when they tasted the vinegar. By using this comparison, Hoff was able to easily show us that Taoism is focused on turning the negative factors of life into positive factors (which is the reason why he was the only man who was smiling). Hoff also proved to us that the most important quality of Taoism is to try to achieve happiness, which is the ultimate goal of life. This introduction to Taoism in the first chapter is clear and accurate, especially as it explains this system by comparing it with Confucianism and Buddhism, which most people are familiar with.
IV. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. What does The Vinegar Tasters represent, and why would the shopkeeper describe the scroll as something humorous, or perhaps with some sort of Timeless Meaning?
2. What is “the world of dust”, and why would Lao-tse advise others to “join the world of dust”?
3. Who were the three masters in the book The Vinegar Tasters? What does the masters represent?
4. Why did K’ung Fu-tse have a sour life, compared to Lao-tse, who had a sweet life?
5. What is the “Tao Virtue Book”? What does it emphasize?
6. Compare and contrast between the three masters. What are some similarities and differences?
7. Why do you think that Benjamin Hoff decided to explain the principle of Taoism by referring to the story of the vinegar tasters and by comparing Lao Zi to Confucius and Buddha?
V. THEME ANALYSIS
The three important themes that arise in ‘The How of Pooh’ are Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism.
They are discussed as the “Three Teachings”, and the sample vinegar in which they test is represented as the Essence of Life.
Confucius (K’ung Fu-tse) has a sour look on his face. This shows that life seems rather sour. The major beliefs are that the government of man on earth was out of harmony with the Way of Heaven, the government of the universe. Also, there is a great emphasis on reverence for the Ancestors, as well as for ancient rituals and ceremonies in which the Son of Heaven, the emperor, acts as an intermediary between the limitless heaven and limited earth.
On the other hand, Buddha has a bitter expression, which shows that life on earth is bitter, and filled with desires that lead to sufferings. According to the Buddhist belief, the world is seen as ‘a setter of traps, a generator of illusions, and a revolving wheel of pain for all creatures.’ Therefore, the goal is to find peace, and thus, it is necessary to transcend “the world of dust” and reach Nirvana, literally a state of “no wind”.
The most important theme is Taoism. Lao-tse (the author of the oldest existing book of Taoism) is smiling. This shows that the harmony in which nature exists between heaven and earth from the very beginning can be found by anyone at any time. Also, as stated in Tao Te Ching, The “Tao Virtue Book”, earth was in essence of a reflection of heaven, run by the same laws - not the laws of men. The more man interferes with the natural balance produced and governed by the universal laws, the farther away the harmony retreats. Everything has its own nature already within it, which cannot be violated without causing difficulties. The world is not a setter of traps, but a teacher of valuable lessons, and these lessons must be learned, just as its laws need to be followed. Then, all would go well. The natural result of the harmonious way of living is happiness, and that happy serenity is the most noticeable characteristic of the Taoist personality. It is also stated that sourness and bitterness originates from interference and the unappreciative mind. Therefore, when life itself is understood and utilized for what it is, it will be sweet.
VI. PHOTOS (URL)
1) Taosim: Yin-Yang Symbol
__http://taoism.about.com/od/visualsymbols/ig/Taoist-Symbols/Yin-Yang-Symbol.--jj.htm__
2) The Vinegar Tasters
__http://www.edepot.com/taoism_3-vinegar-tasters.html__
3) The Essence of Life
__http://newgenerationcoaching.blogspot.com/__
4) Confucius
__http://www.historyforkids.org/learn/china/philosophy/confucius.htm__
5) Buddha
__http://buddha-meditation.org/9/buddha-meditation.html/gautam_buddha_in_meditation__
6) Lao Zi
__http://www.discoverthefire.com/blog/emptiness-lao-tzu/__
Taoism - Assignment 1
Chuang Tzu And The Butterfly Analysis
1. Why does the author choose a butterfly?
I think the author chose to use a butterfly in this poem because a butterfly possesses a metamorphic quality where it changes form from a caterpillar to a wonderful butterfly. The poem here also mentions the cycle and connection of things in life such as the flow (cycle) of water. The poem also brings up the idea of how something that is unpleasant (like an ugly caterpillar) can transform in a beautiful butterfly as time passes. This is similar to the "man raising melons" and the "Prince of the East Hill" except here, the Prince of the East Hill (a man of high status) changes to a "man raising melons" (a man of low status). The metamorphosis of a butterfly and the cycle of life is important because it defines how unexpectedly our lives can change.
2. What is the importance of the water cycle?
The water cycle is important because it symbolizes the flow of life, where everything is interconnected together. It does not matter whether one thing is smaller or bigger than other because everything is connected, possessing the same privileges, and part of nature. This idea of the water cycle relates to the Taoist idea that everything is part of nature and that everyone is essentially equal.
3. What is the point about the 'man raising melons'?
The point made by the story of the "man raising melons" is that even though the Prince of the East Hill is a man of high status and power, he turned into a farmer very easily. This proves that rank, power, and social status are merely positions that can be taken away from people in a blink of a second so, the most important thing people must do is to enjoy their life, the happiness, and remain childlike (with the perspectives of wonder and joy of life).
4. What is the author attempting to convey to the reader?
I think the author is trying to convey the idea that everything is interconnected and that everybody is equal no matter their status or rank. He/she also emphasizes the idea that striving to achieve happiness is the most important quality of life. However, despite this importance, people still try to achieve prominence and power and be above others in life. Most importantly, the author describes the cycle of change, or metamorphosis where things can change at any given time.
Tao of Pooh Discussion Questions and Quotes
James Huh: 1-8
Shelley Shim: 9-16
David Han: 17-24
Seungah Lee: 25-32
1. What is the significance of the painting Hoff describes named The Vinegar Tasters? (2)
- The Vinegar Tasters is a painting that is significant because it represents the "Three Teachings" of China. The three significant figures who represent Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism are Confucius, Buddha, and Lao-tse. The painting shows the way each belief sees life, which is represented by the vinegar, and this is shown by the different types of faces that are made by the three men.
2. What is the theme of life according to Hoff’s interpretation of Taoism? (5-6)
- According to Hoff, the theme of life according to Taoism is the happiness that occurs when one lives in harmony with the world. Instead of trying to move away from the "world of dust," one should try to join it by appreciating, learning from, and working with what happens. Hoff said that Taoism believes that this directly leads to happiness.
3. How does Hoff explain the “uncarved block” metaphor? (10)
- Hoff explains the idea of the uncarved block by first explaining to the readers that the uncarved blocked represents the original simplicity that things naturally have, and how the things that aren't messed around with contain natural energy. For example, Taoism would see the original, pure form of a boulder as having more natural energy than the boulder changed into a slate to carve words onto.
4. What is the secret message of the “uncarved block?” (12)
- The secret message of the uncarved block is that being simpleminded is the key to living life and getting past its problems. Hoff says that being simpleminded isn't the same as being stupid, and it is actually being calm and having a mirror like mind. He even adds on that it is significant that the simpleminded Pooh is the main character of Winnie the Pooh, because it reflects the idea that Pooh is able to accomplish the things that he does because of his simplemindedness.
5. What was the main conflict between the Confucianists and Taoists according to Hoff? (24)
- The main conflict was that scholars in China were generally Confucianist, and saw things from a different point of view from the Taoists. Lao-tse once said a quote that meant that education could prevent one from seeing all things and being wise, and that being smarter could in a way hinder one's wisdom.
6. Which of Milne’s characters represent Confucianists and Taoists according to Hoff?
- Owl represents a Confucianist and Pooh represents a Taoist.
7. What is Hoff’s opinion of Confucianist scholars? (26)
- Hoff does not have a positive opinion about Confucianist scholars, and he shows this by the way he describes them. First, he describes Owl as a "dried-up Western descendent of the Confucianist Dedicated Scholar, who unlike his Noble but rather Unimaginative ancestor..." Hoff gives a small preview of how he thinks about Confucianist scholars by first calling them unimaginative, and talks more about it when Pooh is confused. The opinion is expanded on, and Hoff says that the Confucianist Scholars kept what he learned to himself and wrote pompous papers that no one would understand instead of working for the enlightenment of the people who read it.
8. What does Hoff say about knowledge vs. experience? (29)
- Hoff says that knowledge and experience are two completely different things, but knowledge that comes from experience is better than just plain knowledge.
9. What do most scholars blame for problems in the world? Why isn’t it justified? (32)
Most scholars blame the "uncarved block" for problems in the world. This isn't justified because the scholars refuse to admit that it is their fault and blame it on the "uncarved block" instead. This is a quality of many people. They try to correct their misconceptions with reasonable justifications, but they do not allow themselves to fully agree to it.
10. What is the difference between “cleverness” and “Inner Nature?” (38)
The difference between "cleverness" and "Inner Nature" is that "cleverness" can be measured, has limitations, and people can understand it, but "Inner nature" cannot be measured nor be clearly understood by people.
11. Why is it important to discern your own Inner Nature? (41)
It isn't important to discern your own Inner Nature because you can figure out where and where not you belong. In knowing this, you can easily tell whether things are right or wrong for you.
12. Explain Hoff’s interpretation of the Chinese quote: “One disease, long life; No disease, short life.” (48)
Hoff's interpretation of the Chinese quote above is the idea that people who acknowledge their problems, admit to their misconceptions, and try to fix them will live longer. However, Hoff believes that people who ignore and neglect their problems, reject the existence of them, and those who fail to correct themselves will die sooner because they failed in looking after themselves. This interpretation is similar to the idea that people who know their limitations will live long and be healthy, whereas those who do not recognize their problems will not.
13. What does Hoff mean when he states that we must learn to “work with Things As They Are?” (50)
By stating that we must learn to "work with Things As They Are", Hoff means that people should recognize the quality of things when they are in their natural form rather than trying to adjust them. Hoff is basically saying that we should appreciate and work with "things that are there" instead of trying to get "things to work with us". Overall, he is saying that it is wiser to recognize things as what they are in the present instead of constantly trying to look for answers to unnecessary questions.
14. What happens to people who do not listen to their Inner Nature? (57)
People who do not listen to their Inner Nature have trouble understanding themselves, are easily influenced by others, and instead of recognizing their own individual identity, they are influenced by other people.
15. What is the Way of Self-Reliance? (57-8)
The Way of Self-Reliance is the process of discovering who we are, what we need to do, and what things are right for us. The most important thing is to understand our individual selves and search for things that match us, instead of looking to others.
16. How can we change ourselves effectively through the principles of Taoism? (58)
We can change ourselves effectively through the principles of Taoism by transforming the things we dislike into favorable, beneficial things or use them in a efficient manner/way. In changing the bad to good, many positive items would be created and help us lessen the struggle we have in getting rid of negative ones.
17. What is the Wu Wei or “The Pooh Way” according to Hoff? (67-8)
It is the most characteristic element of Taoism-in-action. Wu Wei basically means “without doing, causing, or making” or no going against the nature of things. However, in practical way, it means without meddlesome, combative, or egotistical effort.
18. How does the quote, “Tao does not do, but nothing is not done,” explain Wu Wei or “The Pooh Way?” (70)
The quote basically means that Tao doesn’t force or interfere with things, but allows them to do their work in their own way, to produce results naturally. Then whatever that is necessary is done. The quote explains that Tao doesn’t do or put any effort on anything but he gets things done naturally with good results.
19. How does Tai Chi reflect Wu Wei or Taoism as a martial art? (87-8)
Tai Chi Ch’uan is the basic idea of which is to wear the opponent out either by sending his energy back at him or by deflecting it away, in order to weaken his power, balance, and position-for-defense. Never is force opposed with force; instead, it is overcome with yielding. What it means to be overcame with yielding is that results will produce naturally without any force from something just like the idea of We Wei or Taoism.
20. Are you a Bisy Backson? (94)
Just like Bisy Backson is active with his exercises all the time, I also do physical activities, because I play various sports which are good exercises. However, sometimes I see those exercises as works, because it requires physical body movement and work that your body have to do.
21. What is the Bisy Backson view of American history according to Hoff? (103-104)
Bisy Backson thinks that he has to fight and overcome things to progress. The correct definition of progress involves developing and growing which also involves changing inside, but that’s not something the Bisy Backson will do. Bisy Backson believes that he has to change everything and interfering with useless things to make a progress.
22. How does the Bisy Backson waste time by trying to save it? (108-109)
Bisy Backson doesn’t spend his time wisely and usefully, because he thinks doing much work beforehand will save him time, but realistically it doesn’t.
23. What is the Youthful Immortal? (108-9)
Youthful Immortal is one of the most intriguing things about Taoism.
24. What makes us happy in life the goals or the process we go through to reach the goals? Why? (111)
The way of doing things right and going through beneficial process makes us happy, wise and have enjoyment. However, doing things wrong make us miserable, angry, confused.
25. What is the significance of The Stonecutter? (118-9)
The significance of The Stonecutter is that one should always be satisfied of their life no matter which level he or she is in. The Stonecutter wanted to be the merchant, official, sun, and many other things; however, after becoming the stone, he looks down what could be more powerful than the stone and finds out that it was the stonecutter.
26. Explain the significance of the following line from the Tao Te Ching: “From caring comes courage.” (128)
the statement, "From caring comes courage" is significant because it defines having wisdom. According to the story, it is rather significant to those who do not have compassion, do not have wisdom either. Through this quote, people can get more confident and courage in their lives.
27. Where does one find Wisdom, Happiness and Courage? (137)
One can find Wisdom, Happiness, and Courage through appreciating what he or she has given and who you are.
28. What is the “Great Nothing?” (143)
To the Taoist, "Great Nothing" actually means something because they think that nothing is something that many consider to be important. Doing "nothing" will eventually give one a very meaningful and important result.
29. Why is an “Empty sort of mind” so valuable according to Taoism? (146-7)
An "Empty sort of mind" is valuable because it allows one to find pearls and tails that cannot be seen that easily with complicated thoughts inside one's mind. Because Knowledge and Cleverness can lead one to wrong things, it is better to have an empty mind that one can think of something very easily and without complication.
30. Interpret the following quote: “To attain knowledge, add things every day. To attain wisdom, remove things every day.” (148-9)
This statement tells that in order to obtain the knowledge, one should add things by learning. However, in order to obtain the wisdom, one should forget about oneself (how the story mentioned about forgetting his body and senses and leaving all appearance and information behind) and start from nowhere.
31. Why is the child the highest stage of development? (151)
The child is the highest stage of development because the child have the purest and "clear-minded, all-seeing Child" called wisdom by the Taoists which does not apply to the adults. Because the children are very pure and empty-minded, they can actually experience the concept of "Great Nothing" and gain more wisdom.
32. Why may knowledge and cleverness destroy life as we know it? (154)
Knowledge and cleverness may destroy life because cleverness of mind only separates the thinker from the world of reality. Also too much and complicated knowledge will make one to think too much and care too little.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS - Tradition and Religion
1. What do you think religion is, and what does it mean to be a religious person? Is Confucius religious?
Give your reasons for thinking what you think.
I think that religion is a collection of faith, beliefs, and culture that relate to humanity and is accepted by people. To be a religious person, one needs to be strongly devoted and completely believe in their religion. Considering this, I think that Confucius is religious in his own way because he follows a system of beliefs and ideals and believes deeply in Confucianism. The only difference is that his way of being religious is different to the way of a Christian.
2. What do Confucius's statements about Heaven suggest about his idea of the relation between Heaven and man? How does this compare with your ideas about the relation between Heaven and man or God and man in Judaism or Christianity or another religious tradition with which you are familiar?
Confucius states that the present is the Heaven that we live in and that there is no such thing as a Heaven that decides one destiny and decides when a person will live or die. Confucius thinks that the Heaven is the present, or the natural world. One of the quotes he mentions in his analects is "My prayer has been for along time (that is, what counts is the life that one leads)." This shows that Confucius believes that the Heaven in the present is the most important and that the afterlife does not have any importance.
His view of the relationship between Heaven and man is different to that of Christians who people in the afterlife and the existence of Heaven and Hell. Confucius focuses on the idea that the present time is the most important and the Heaven that men are supposed to believe and work hard in.
NOTES ON CONFUCIUS AND CONFUCIANISM
HAVEN'T I SEEN YOU SOMEWHERE BEFORE? SAMSARA AND KARMA IN THE JATAKA TALES
1. How is the experience of karma/samsara different from that of Christianity (in your opinion)? The same?
Karma/Samsara and Christianity are similar in that they both emphasize values for becoming good and penalize for actions that are considered disrespectful. In addition, both karma and Christianity follow the idea that their is an afterlife for those that believe the religion and that their is a connection between the character (or way) the person had lived before he/she had died and the outcome of their death. However, the outcomes of the deaths of people differ for the two religions. In Christianity, the idea follows that a person who had done good in their previous life would go to Heaven and a person who had been malevolent would go to Hell. On the other hand, in karma/samsara, the idea follows that a person who does good in their previous life will be reborn into a good life, and a person who does evil will be reborn into another life that is unpleasant. In conclusion, Christianity supports the idea that a good person will go to Heaven and live in perfect peace, whereas in karma/samsara, the idea is that a person will continuously be reborn until they achieve the goal of becoming the "enlightened" or perfect being.
2. Speculate on what sort of being the prince might become in his subsequent life?
Since the prince was known for his malice and mistreated people who had no wrong to him in his previous life, he would probably be reborn as an animal or an insect that would always have to work continuously in order to earn its own living. Some possibilities are an ant, a pig, a donkey, or a bird; any living creature that would have to work hard to survive. I thought that the prince would be reborn this way because in this way, the prince would learn and discover what he had done wrong in his previous life and work hard to become a better being.
3. Which of the three animals in the story is closest to Enlightenment in your opinion? Why?
Out of the three animals mentioned in the story, I think that the parrot is the closest to Enlightenment as their was no clear mention of any personal desire or greed he had had in his previous life. Also, when the holy man asked each of the three animals what he would get in return for the help and generosity he had given, the parrot had offered to gather the richest red rice from the Himalayas by asking all the other parrots to assist him in the job. This offer shows that the parrot would be willing to work in order to pay back for the help he had received from another person. Unlike the water rat and the snake, who offered only to give the holy man money they had earned from their previous life, the parrot was willing to work at any time to help a friend who had saved him from a close-to-death situation.
4. It is said that Buddha (Siddhartha Gautama) had 550 lives - some in animal form, some in human form - which of the characters in the story do you think is from one of his previous lives? Why?
I think that the holy man was a form of one of Buddha's previous lives. Similar to the the man described in the story, Buddha was also from a wealthy family (he was actually a prince) but he gave up all the luxury and comfort he may have had in order to become a "good" and "enlightened" being. The holy man was willing to risk his life to help creatures that were in need of his help and worked to promote peace and generosity amongst creatures. This is one of the major ideas that Buddha follows: helping others and doing "good".
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ZEN BUDDHISM RECORDING
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FAITH JOURNEY
WHAT DO RELIGION AND PHILOSOPHY HAVE IN COMMON?
Both religion and philosophy relate to our lives as systems of beliefs and values that we, as humans, follow. They influence our minds, our ways of thinking, as well as the meaning and purpose of life. They both act as guides to our society and to the individual, keeping us focused and diligent to our beliefs.
WHY IS THE STUDY OF RELIGION AND PHILOSOPHY IMPORTANT?
The study of religion and philosophy is important because they help us obtain an understanding of other religions and philosophies that we may encounter in our lives. It gives us a sense of understanding different people with different sets of beliefs and values. It helps us form a wider perspective of the world, as well as the people around us.